Popsicle Treats

When we found a recipe for watermelon popsicles, we knew we had to try them. Delicious and refreshing for both humans and dogs, these popsicles will have everyone talking (and drooling).

Keep in mind that the following recipe can be adapted for dogs.  Instead of using granulated sugar, try adding a teaspoon of honey or skip adding sugar.  Do not add the chocolate chips since chocolate can be harmful to dogs when ingested.

These popsicles take time to make.  Each layer requires hardening before adding the next layer.  It's impossible to use the popsicle holder that comes with the mold. Instead use a wooden popsicle stick so that layers can be created.

These popsicles were a hit in our household.  The dogs tried watermelon for the first time and loved it!  With every lick, you could see their eyes dance with delight.

Summer is meant to be enjoyed.  And what can better than tasting our way through the seasonal foods that are available now.  We are definitely going to make these popsicles again!

Enjoy!

Ingredients

19 oz cubed seedless watermelon (about 3 1/2 cups)
5 1/2 Tbsp granulated sugar , divided
1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
1/2 cup canned coconut milk , well shaken
13 oz kiwi (about 6 medium)
1 Tbsp mini chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Add watermelon, 2 Tbsp granulated sugar and lemon juice to a blender and blend until well pureed. Skim off foam then carefully pour into 10 popsicles molds filling each about 2/3 full (try not to splash on sides, I found it worked best to let it run down the outside edge then just wipe off that part later with a damp paper towel or q-tip).

1. Sprinkle the chocolate chips over tops then using a popsicles stick gently push down to immerse chips (push towards sides so you can see them once the freeze). Wipe sides clean as needed. Cover with the lid and insert popsicles sticks. Freeze 3 1/2 hours.

1. During last 30 minutes of popsicles freezing, whisk together coconut milk with 1 1/2 Tbsp sugar until sugar has dissolved, chill 30 minutes (you want it to be a nice pourable consistency after chilling, not too thick. If you find that it is stir in 1 - 2 Tbsp cold water to thin. I recommend chilling it because you just don't want it warm or it will melt the watermelon layer when pouring in).

1. Remove popsicles from freezer, remove lid and carefully pour a scant tablespoon coconut milk into an even layer over watermelon layer (again, it works best to pour it down the outside edge then wipe clean). Clean sides as necessary. Return to freezer, uncovered, and chill 45 minutes.

1. Meanwhile, cut tops from kiwi and use a spoon to scoop flesh from kiwi while leaving skins. Transfer kiwi to blender along with 2 Tbsp granulated sugar. Pulse until well pureed. Force mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl using a rubber spatula to remove seeds (at this point I mixed int just a tiny bit of blue gel coloring because mine weren't the best shade of green, so that's optional). Chill kiwi mixture 30 minutes.
2. Remove popsicles from freezer and carefully pour about 1 Tbsp kiwi mixture over coconut layer. Return to freezer and chill until popsicles are solid about 2 - 3 hours.
3. To remove popsicles from molds, turn tray to the side and run plastic molds under warm water several seconds (don't let the water touch the kiwi portion at the top) then slowly pull from molds.

*Recipe from CookingClassy.com